We are disappointed that House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman, Henry Waxman’s proposed legislation has fallen to the wayside. We believe that the Congressman’s proposal struck a compromise that ensured an open Internet and encouraged continued broadband innovation and investment needed to reach universal Internet adoption and access across America.

Only 47% of Latinos have adopted broadband services at home, versus 69% of African Americans and 72% of Whites, according to the FCC. Yet, HTTP continues to insist that FCC reclassification of broadband services is not the answer and will only make it more difficult and less affordable for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and families to be online. We encourage Congress to reconvene on this issue and continue working toward a bi-partisan legislative solution that supports an open and robust Internet so that our community can continue to work toward universal digital inclusion.

We support Chairman Waxman, Sub-committee Chair, Boucher and other members for their efforts to reach agreement on this complex issue.

“It is critically important for the Hispanic community that Congress, the FCC, and the telecommunications industry focus on the real needs of increased access and adoption that are only being delayed due to this net neutrality and reclassification roadblock,” said Jason A. Llorenz, Executive Director, HTTP.